In a landmark decision, Tarrant County Commissioners in Fort Worth, Texas, have voted to approve the largest settlement payout in the county’s history. The settlement, amounting to $1.2 million, was awarded to the family of infant Zenorah Congious, who tragically passed away in 2020 after being born at the Tarrant County Jail.

Tragic Circumstances Surrounding Zenorah’s Death

Zenorah’s mother, Chasity Congious, gave birth to her daughter while alone in a cell at the Tarrant County Jail in 2020. Shockingly, it took jail staff 40 minutes to discover that Congious had given birth, with the umbilical cord wrapped around the baby’s neck. Despite efforts to save her, Zenorah passed away just ten days later in a hospital.

Legal Action and Settlement

In response to this devastating loss, Kimberly Hammond, Zenorah’s grandmother and legal guardian, filed a lawsuit against the county and other parties in 2022. The lawsuit sought damages for wrongful death and neglect. Despite the settlement, the county has not admitted any wrongdoing in the matter.

Renewed Calls for Accountability

This settlement comes amidst renewed calls for accountability and transparency regarding deaths in the Tarrant County Jails. The recent death of inmate Anthony Johnson Jr. on April 21, 2024, further intensified scrutiny. Johnson’s death, revealed through jail video footage, occurred after a jailer placed his knee on Johnson’s back until he became unresponsive. Subsequently, Sheriff Bill Waybourn and his supervisor were terminated.

Public Outcry and Response

Criticism over the handling of Zenorah Congious’ death, along with others, has sparked public outcry. Many have called for Sheriff Bill Waybourn to resign, citing systemic issues within the county’s jail system. Over the past eight months alone, Tarrant County commissioners have settled lawsuits totaling $2.2 million related to deaths in the jail.

Financial Implications and Oversight

These settlements are funded by Tarrant County’s self-insurance fund, with $3 million allocated for such expenditures in fiscal year 2024. Commissioner Alisa Simmons expressed concern over the financial burden on taxpayers and highlighted the need for reform in the jail system.

Sheriff’s Response and Ongoing Challenges

Sheriff Waybourn, who has overseen more than 60 deaths in the Tarrant County Jail since taking office in 2017, defended the jail’s protocols during the settlement approval meeting. Despite criticism, Waybourn emphasized the jail’s recent passing of a review by the Texas Commission on Jail Standards.

Continuing Legal Battles

While the settlement provides some closure for Zenorah Congious’ family, other lawsuits related to the Tarrant County Jail remain ongoing. The tragic loss of Zenorah has sparked conversations not only about accountability but also about the need for comprehensive reform to prevent similar tragedies in the future.

Conclusion: Seeking Justice and Reform

The settlement in the case of Zenorah Congious serves as a reminder of the profound impact of systemic failures within the criminal justice system. As Tarrant County grapples with the aftermath of this tragedy, there is a collective call for accountability, transparency, and meaningful reform. While financial compensation can never fully address the loss suffered by Zenorah’s family, it underscores the urgent need for change to prevent such incidents from occurring again. Download The Local News App to stay updated on developments in this ongoing story and others impacting your community.

Source